Strutting into 63: A Runway, a Winery, and a Moment of Joy

Strutting into 63: My Catwalk Moment with Sindashi

I never imagined I’d walk a runway at 63—especially not at a stunning winery just outside San Miguel de Allende, surrounded by towering, elegant, professional models who looked like they had just stepped off the pages of Vogue. But life keeps surprising me, and I’m learning to say “yes” to the unexpected.

It all started with an invitation from Angela, the incredibly warm and talented owner of Sindashi, to participate in a fashion show featuring her brand’s wearable art—hand-painted, artisan-made clothing inspired by Mexican culture. The designs are bold, intricate, and alive with storytelling. They don’t just dress the body—they honor tradition, creativity, and identity.

Angela had previously invited me to represent Sindashi in a photo shoot, so seeing her again—along with the same hair and makeup artists and the photographer who has included me in five other shoots—was reassuring. Familiar faces in an unfamiliar environment can feel like anchors, and in this case, they made all the difference.

Maximiliano Musas, Fashion Producer, oversaw the entire production and took time to give me important pointers.

The show was held at a gorgeous winery, with rolling hills and lush vineyards creating a magical backdrop. I arrived knowing I’d be the oldest model there by a few decades. Nearly everyone else spoke Spanish fluently, and most were tall, willowy, and incredibly poised. Picture a room full of Gisele Bündchens. And then… there was me.

Only one other model wasn’t fluent in Spanish, but despite the language barrier, the energy in the room transcended words: nervous excitement, artistic passion, and a shared commitment to creating something beautiful.

I had three outfit changes and walked the runway five times. At first, I was nervous—where should I look? How fast should I walk? Will I trip? Can I remember to breathe?

But as soon as I stepped onto the catwalk, something inside me shifted. I wasn’t trying to be 25. I wasn’t trying to hide my white hair, my softer middle, or my well-earned laugh lines. I was simply showing up as myself—a real woman with a full life behind her and plenty of curiosity ahead.

I’ve spent most of my career as an active aging advocate, encouraging others to challenge stereotypes and redefine what it means to grow older. And here I was—living the very thing I’ve preached. It was a powerful, full-circle moment.

The audience, the music, the lights, the encouraging nods from the other models—it all felt like a celebration of inclusion, expression, and confidence at every age. I was honored, exhilarated, and deeply grateful to be there. The team behind Sindashi didn’t just include me—they embraced me as part of the creative whole.

Being 63 doesn’t mean stepping out of the spotlight. Sometimes, it means stepping right into it—shoes, soul, and all.